Granit Xhaka, Arsenal’s midfielder, is still under question for the match against Manchester City, according to boss Mikel Arteta.
The Swiss international failed to make a Premier League matchday squad for the first time this season during last Friday night’s 3-3 draw at home against bottom-of-the-table Southampton. He was absent due to an injury and Fabio Vieira took his place in the starting lineup.
Arteta is confident that Xhaka will be able to participate in the session before choosing whether or not to give the midfielder a swift recall since the Gunners are scheduled to practice at London Colney today afternoon before travelling to Manchester.
William Saliba’s injury situation was also spoken of by Arteta at the same time. The Frenchman has not played since limping off against Sporting CP in the Europa League round of 16-second leg last month. He has now missed the following five matches due to a back issue.
The Arsenal boss hinted that the central defender’s week was going to be important before the Southampton game, but has now ruled that out by confirming rumours that the 21-year-old won’t be available for the selection.
Arteta said, “Unfortunately, he hasn’t really improved, so we’re still waiting. We remain optimistic, but another week has passed and he is still unable to play. We’re preparing for this game without him, and the following match against Chelsea is likely to be too soon for him to return as well.”
